A rolling instrument for rolling the outside surface of the stomach for
reducing stomach volume in bariatric surgery includes an elongated
tubular body that is sufficiently flexible to allow for access to the
outside surface. The tubular body includes a proximal end and a distal
end. The proximal end is shaped and dimensioned for use by the medical
practitioner performing the medical procedure and includes a handle for
manipulation of the rolling instrument. The distal end of the tubular
body includes a mechanism allowing for gripping of the stomach in a
manner permitting rolling thereof. A coiled retainer shaped and
dimensioned is provided for application to the rolled portion of the
stomach in a manner holding the rolled portion of the stomach in its
rolled configuration. The coiled retainer includes a helically coiled
body having a first end and a second end, the first end is pointed such
that it may puncture tissue as the coiled body is rotated during its
application to the stomach.